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More Than Taste: Refreshing Benefits of Dad's Favorite Brew

Dad, here’s some good news about the brewski you enjoy while watching
the ball game or while hanging out with buddies: Beer – whether
you like it hoppy, smooth and golden, or dark and thick – isn’t
all bad. In fact, one study found that a Guinness a day could keep the
eye doctor away. And your bottle of favorite suds might have other health benefits.

How’s that for an early Father’s Day gift?

“Smoking, not exercising and eating highly processed foods all wreak
havoc on your health,” says
Leo Smith MD, a family medicine physician with
Annadel Medical Group in Santa Rosa. “But there’s really no harm in the occasional
beer as long as you drink responsibly and in moderation. In fact, there’s
been research that suggests beer – and any other kind of alcohol
– can actually increase your good cholesterol and lower your risk
of heart disease. And, beer has also been linked to lowered risk of kidney
stones and lower blood pressure. ”

Don’t take this as license to down a six-pack of amber nectar, though
(especially if you want a six pack in your stomach.)

In general, alcohol isn’t good for you, Dr. Smith says. Drink too
much and your chances of health problems go up, including some cancers.
You also risk becoming alcohol dependent, Dr. Smith says.

“For some people, the risks outweigh the benefits,” says Dr.
Smith. “That’s particularly true if there’s a family
history of alcoholism or if you have any liver problems.”

Men should limit themselves to two drinks a day and women should limit
themselves to one drink a day.

“If you’re not a drinker, don’t start,” Dr. Smith
says. “And don’t forget, when you’re drinking, you’re
taking in calories and carbohydrates. In fact, beer is among the top five
sources of calories among adult Americans. And, it inhibits your impulse
control. When you drink, you’re more likely to eat more.”

Want to know exactly how many calories you’re drinking?

Here’s a look at nutritional information for a 12-ounce serving of
some popular brews:

Brand

Calories

Carbs

% alcohol

Budweiser

145

10.6

5

Coors

149

12.2

5

Corona Light

99

5

3.2

Guinness Extra Stout

176

14

6

Heineken

148

11.3

5

O’Doul’s

65

13.3

.4

Sam Adams Boston Lager

180

18.8

4.9

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

176

14.1

5.6

Regardless of which beer you choose, remember these words from Dr. Smith:

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The general information presented by HealthCalling is not intended to serve
as medical advice or as a diagnosis. Please get in touch with your primary
care physician for any medical concerns. For suggested topics and comments
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